Honour for Scottish Chamber Orchestra conductor

The Principal Conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra is to receive an honorary degree from the University of St Andrews.

Joseph Swensen will be presented with a Doctor of Music (DMus) at one of the University’s graduation ceremonies in June. The Chancellor of the University, Sir Kenneth Dover, will preside over the event.

Born in New York in 1960, Swensen has rapidly established himself as one of the most exciting talents to have emerged from today’s generation of conductors. This was recognised by his appointment, in 1996, as Principal Conductor of SCO, an appointment which will run until 2002.

Last year, Swensen and the SCO marked the 25th anniversary of the orchestra with an acclaimed Beethoven cycle. Last summer saw Swensen’s debut at the BBC Proms, featuring the world premiere of Autumn Gardens by Rautavaara. Later this year, he will take up the position of Principal Guest Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, a position he has held with the Lahti Symphony Orchestra since 1995.

Other guest appearances include the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Toronto Symphany, London Philharmonic, Royal Stockholm Philharmonic, Swedish Radio Symphony and Gothenbug Symphony Orchestra. In 2001,he will make his debut at the English National Opera with a new production of Don Giovanni.

Swensen, who lives in Copenhagen, also composes and various orchestras have performed his orchestral works.

Issued by Beattie Media on behalf of the University of St Andrews For more information, contact Claire Grainger Telephone 01334 462530 or mobile 07887 650072 Ref: hon2000.swensen/standrews/chg/10mar ch2000/PR1904